Near-Drowning

Definition

Near-drowning is respiratory impairment from being in or under a liquid. Normal air exchange is prevented by inhaled liquid when a person’s nose and mouth are under the surface of a liquid or when a person’s face comes in contact with liquid.

Causes

Near-drowning is caused by liquid, most commonly water, filling the lungs resulting in breathing problems. At first, the person will hold their breath. Eventually, the person will no longer be able to hold it. The liquid will then flow into the lungs. This liquid will not allow the normal gas exchange in the lungs to happen.

Treatment

Call for emergency medical services right away. Treatment will depend on how badly the near-drowning episode damaged the body.

Emergency Response

Emergency response and first aid must be done quickly to restore breathing and prevent death.

Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)—Done to provide oxygen-rich air to the vital organs of the body. This may involve giving rescue breaths or doing chest compressions. In all unconscious people and those who have been diving, the head and neck should be supported in case of injuries to the spine.

Warming treatments—Done if the body's temperature dropped after being in cold water (hypothermia). They are done slowly to avoid further injury to the body.

Endotracheal intubation—A narrow tube is placed into the trachea (windpipe) to maintain an open airway.

Prevention

To help reduce chances that that you or someone you know will drown, take the following steps:

Never leave children alone with any body of water such as a pool, bathtub, or spa. Drowning can occur within moments.

Take or have your child take swimming lessons. Remember that even a child who knows how to swim is still at risk for drowning and will need constant supervision.

A fence or barrier should completely enclose your pool or spa. All gates or doors leading from the house to the pool area should have a self-closing, self-latching gate. It should be above the reach of toddlers and young children. You may want to get a pool alarm or rigid pool cover in addition to the fence and gates.

If you use a lightweight, floating pool cover, be extra alert to the potential for drowning accidents. These covers do not keep people from falling in. No one should ever crawl or walk on them.

Remove any obstacles to allow a full view of the pool or spa from the house.

Body parts and hair can be trapped in pool drains. Be sure that the pool has drain covers or a filter system to release the suction.

Ensure careful supervision of all guests if alcoholic beverages are served at a spa or pool.

When swimming in open water, choose an area where there is a lifeguard.

Always wear life vests when boating.

There is a risk of drowning during the wintertime. Warn children and others about the danger of walking or skating on thin ice.

Do not allow anyone of any age to swim alone. A supervising adult should be within arm's length of infants and toddlers who are swimming. The adult should know how to swim, be able to rescue someone, and do CPR.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.